Name of the Procedure:

Repair of Laceration 2.5 cm or Less; Posterior One-Third of Tongue

Summary

This procedure involves stitching or suturing a small cut or tear (2.5 cm or less) located on the posterior (back) one-third part of the tongue to facilitate healing and restore normal function.

Purpose

The procedure is used to treat lacerations on the back part of the tongue, which might occur due to trauma or injury. The goals are to prevent infection, stop bleeding, promote healing, and restore normal tongue function.

Indications

• A visible cut or tear on the posterior one-third of the tongue.
• Persistent bleeding from the tongue laceration.
• Difficulty in speaking, swallowing, or eating due to the injury.
• Risk of infection or further damage if left untreated.

Preparation

• Fasting for a few hours before the procedure (as instructed by the healthcare provider).
• Inform your doctor about any current medications; you may need to adjust blood thinners or other drugs.
• A thorough examination of the mouth and tongue, possibly including imaging studies if necessary.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the area. In some cases, conscious sedation might be used.
2. Cleaning: The area around the laceration will be cleaned thoroughly to minimize the risk of infection.
3. Suturing: The edges of the laceration will be carefully aligned, and sutures (stitches) will be placed to hold the tissue together and promote proper healing.
4. Inspection: The repair will be checked for proper alignment, and any bleeding will be controlled.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes, though this can vary based on the complexity of the laceration.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital's emergency department.

Personnel

• Oral or maxillofacial surgeon.
• Nurses to assist during the procedure.
• An anesthesiologist, if conscious sedation is used.

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the site of the laceration.
• Swelling or bruising of the tongue.
• Pain or discomfort during and after the procedure.
• Rarely, damage to surrounding tissues or blood vessels.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of infection and further complications.
• Faster and more efficient healing of the laceration.
• Restoration of normal tongue function, aiding in speech and eating.

Recovery

• Avoid eating or drinking until the anesthesia wears off.
• Soft or liquid diet to avoid irritating the stitches.
• Pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.
• Follow-up visit to remove stitches if non-dissolvable sutures were used.
• Full recovery is expected within 7-14 days.

Alternatives

• Conservative management involving wound cleaning and monitoring, though this carries a higher risk of infection and slower healing.
• Use of tissue adhesives instead of sutures, though not always suitable for all lacerations and locations.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, you will feel minimal discomfort due to anesthesia. Afterward, you may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with pain relief medications. Eating and speaking may be temporarily affected, but these issues should resolve within a few days. Compliance with post-procedure care is crucial for optimal recovery.